Aaron McMindes knew he wanted to be a physical therapist, working with disabled veterans, after he suffered a traumatic brain injury while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

But it was the GI Bill that allowed him to go to Moorpark College, the next step in that career.

McMindes was one of 23 veterans who graduated from the college Thursday evening along with about 320 other students.

"I don't think I would have been able to go without it," said McMindes, 25, who earned an associate degree in kinesiology and served as president of the Veterans Club. "It relieves pressure for student veterans. It allows them to focus on academics rather than employment."

Graduates marked the occasion with selfies, new shoes that hurt — and even a cap decorated with plastic dinosaurs.

The youngest graduate was 15; the oldest was 67.

All of them listened to a series of speakers offering advice. Have a cup of tea. Clean the slate. Lift as you climb. Fight for what matters to you. And celebrate.

"When the good stuff happens, we tend to just skate past it," said Sydney Sims, an English professor. "We should celebrate it."

Beth Hager, 50, was celebrating earning a degree in behavioral science. Hager, who does child care, sees the push for universal preschool and wants to be prepared.

"It's meeting a need," Hager said. "A lack of education is the root of so many social problems."

As graduates walked across the stage, their families, carrying balloons and bouquets, celebrated in the audience, whooping and clapping.

Robert Felix, 44, who served in the Air Force, was celebrating right along with them, having earned an associate degree in physical science.

His advice?

"Pursue your dreams, no matter how old you are," he said. "Just pursue them."